Robert P. George

According to Robert P. George in the following viewpoint, a federal marriage amendment to the U.S. Constitution must be enacted to preserve marriage as a bond between a man and a woman. He argues that courts are deciding laws—such as the Vermont Supreme Court 2001 decision to enact civil unions, legally recognized same-sex unions that offer the benefits of marriage—that should be voted on by the American public. A federal marriage amendment would prohibit courts from legally sanctioning gay relationships without the public’s approval. George is a contributor to the National Review.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. According to George, what two principles are at the core of traditional marriage?
2. As stated by the author, what does the “Full Faith and...